First Full-Color Micro Images Produced with a 100,000-dpi Resolution
“Similar to a child’s ‘coloring-by-numbers’ image, the sizes and positions of these nanostructures defined the ‘numbers’. But instead of sequentially coloring each area with a different ink, an ultrathin and uniform metal film was deposited across the entire image causing the ‘encoded’ colors to appear all at once, almost like magic!” continued Dr. Yang.
The researchers from IMRE had also collaborated with A*STAR’s Institute of High Performance Computing (IHPC) to design the pattern using computer simulation and modeling. IHPC’s Dr Ravi Hegde said, “The computer simulations were vital in understanding how the structures gave rise to such rich colors. This knowledge is currently being used to predict the behavior of more complicated nanostructure arrays.”
The researchers are currently working with Exploit Technologies Pte Ltd (ETPL), A*STAR’s technology transfer arm, to engage potential collaborators and to explore licensing the technology.
About IMRE
The Institute of Materials Research and Engineering (IMRE) is a research institute of the Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR). The Institute has capabilities in materials analysis an characterization, design and growth, patterning and fabrication, and synthesis and integration. We house a range of state-of-the-art equipment for materials research including development, processing and characterization. IMRE conducts a wide range of research, which includes novel materials for organic solar cells, photovoltaics, printed electronics, catalysis, bio-mimetics, microfluidics, quantum dots, heterostructures, sustainable materials, atom technology, etc. We collaborate actively with other research institutes, universities, public bodies, and a wide spectrum of industrial companies, both globally and locally.
About A*STAR
The Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR) is the lead agency for fostering world-class scientific research and talent for a vibrant knowledge-based and innovation-driven Singapore. A*STAR oversees 14 biomedical sciences and physical sciences and engineering research institutes, and six consortia and centers, located in Biopolis and Fusionopolis as well as their immediate vicinity.
